Castle Lager

Brew your own Castle Lager at home, a refreshing South African beer with a crisp finish and hoppy aroma. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy evenings with friends, this brew is sure to impress.

• 2 kg malted barley
• 500 g hops
• 1 g lager yeast
• 20 l water
• 2 kg corn sugar
• 1 tsp fining agent

Method

1. 1

   Begin by crushing the malted barley to expose the starches for fermentation.

2. 2

   In a large brewing kettle, heat 15 liters of water to 65°C (149°F) and add the crushed barley. Maintain this temperature for about 45 minutes.

3. 3

   After mashing, raise the temperature to 75°C (167°F) for 10 minutes to stop the enzymatic activity.

4. 4

   Strain the liquid (wort) from the grains into another kettle, then bring it to a boil and add hops. Boil for 60 minutes.

5. 5

   After boiling, cool the wort down to 20°C (68°F) and transfer it to a fermentation vessel. Add the lager yeast and stir gently.

6. 6

   Seal the fermentation vessel and allow it to ferment for about 2 weeks at a consistent temperature of around 10°C (50°F).

7. 7

   Once fermentation is complete, add corn sugar to the lager for carbonation and transfer it to bottles or kegs.

8. 8

   Let the lager condition for at least another 2 weeks before enjoying your refreshing Castle Lager.